I have searched high and low for information about this high voltage radiator fan assembly. Volvo would not let me talk to the mechanic, and said they dont give out part numbers. I finally found mentions of it and figured out it is located behind where the fog light would be. The day after going to Volvo dealer, I observed it spinning briefly when I plugged the vehicle in. It spun just fine for 20 minutes or so while charging. I unplug it, it stops. Plug it back in, it comes back on. However, I then notice the larger engine cooling fan comes on and the small fan stops. I observe it for the next week and notice that it never spins when the vehicle is on or when the engine fan is on. Only when the vehicle is cool or relatively cool and only during charging.
I bought the 02 sensor from Volvo for $475 and replaced it myself. Code came back and Volvo says they need to reset the adaptations. I also stopped charging the vehicle so that there would be less battery use and more ICE. I drove it for about two weeks like this. And guess what? The code regarding battery cooling cleared itself from the permanent and stored code sections.
Do I need to replace this small fan, even though I watched it spinning just fine for 20 minutes? What could be causing it to not run at all the times that it should be running? Should I worry about this whole battery temperature issue? I would rather charge it every day and save money on fuel, but if I have to just drive it in regular hybrid mode, then so be it. Also, could different fuel octane be causing the P0171, since I’ve only put high-octane premium gas, and it’s possible that the previous owner used the cheaper fuel?
Also, are these mechanics just guessing on my dime or are they certain when they recommend replacing parts? Does anyone know the part number for this radiator fan assembly? I’m trying to figure out if it comes with a relay or fan control module on the fan, which could explain the intermittent spinning, if the relay is malfunctioning.
One other thing I should mention is that there is a loud buzzing, vibrating sound coming from an area between the two fans. It only makes this noise when the large engine cooling fan is on but it does not seem like the fan itself is the cause of the noise, as the mechanic claims. This noise is on the entire time I am charging the vehicle, and after driving it does it for long periods of time. Sometimes for several hours.
Any help with this matter would be GREATLY APPRECIATED! I really love this vehicle and I don’t want to sell it, but this whole experience has been a bummer.